Maintaining your car's health is crucial for ensuring safety and longevity. One of the most essential aspects of vehicle maintenance is wheel alignment. Poor alignment can lead to uneven tire wear, affecting your vehicle's handling and fuel efficiency. But how do you tell if your car needs a wheel alignment? In this blog post, we will go over key indicators that suggest it's time for a visit to the mechanic or a tire shop.

Car Pulls to One Side

Firstly, if you notice that your car is pulling to one side while driving straight, it's a clear sign your wheels may be misaligned. This phenomenon occurs because the tires are angled outwards or inwards, causing uneven friction on the road. Since almost 17 million vehicles are sold in the United States every year, according to Statista, odds are you either own a car or will be in the market for one. Paying attention to how your vehicle handles on the road can save you from more expensive issues down the line. If your car pulls to one side, it's a good idea to take it to a tire shop for an alignment check.

Uneven Tire Wear

Another strong indicator of poor alignment is uneven tire wear. When the wheels are not aligned properly, certain parts of the tire tread experience more friction, leading to accelerated wear and tear. Regularly inspecting your tires can help you catch this issue early. If you notice that the inner or outer edges of your tires are wearing down faster than the rest, it is crucial to consult a tire shop for a professional alignment test. Uneven tire wear not only reduces the lifespan of your tires but can also affect vehicle safety and performance.

Steering Wheel Vibration

Lastly, steering wheel vibration can also signal alignment issues. When the wheels are not aligned, they tend to wobble slightly, causing the vibration to transfer through the steering column to the steering wheel. This is particularly noticeable when driving at higher speeds. Ignoring this issue could significantly shorten the lifespan of your tires and harm other components of your vehicle's steering and suspension systems. A visit to the tire shop can address this problem and prevent further damage.

Recognizing the signs of poor wheel alignment can go a long way in maintaining vehicle performance and safety. Be sure to visit a tire shop if you suspect any alignment issues. Contact Tires & Mohr today.